The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has launched a formal investigation into the gambling promotion carried out through online platforms. Several well-known YouTubers and social media influencers have been summoned as part of the inquiry.
According to official documents, YouTuber Rajab Butt, along with influencers Iqra Kanwal and Muhammad Anas Ali, has been directed to appear before the cyber crime agency on September 9. Written notices were dispatched earlier this week, calling them in for questioning.
Rajab Butt, one of Pakistan’s most-followed YouTubers, is at the center of the probe. Authorities have accused him of encouraging young people to invest in online gambling applications.
The NCCIA alleges that he used his platforms for gambling promotion and trading schemes designed to mislead followers and extract money from them.
The official notice stated that failure to appear would be taken as a presumption that he has “nothing to present or state in his defence.”
Legal Defence
Butt’s lawyer, Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, confirmed that his client will be represented by their law firm. He added that a detailed written response will be submitted on September 9. “Rajab Butt’s case is being reviewed from all aspects, and he will defend himself fully in accordance with the law,” Ashfaq said.
The NCCIA’s action comes shortly after the arrest of another famous YouTuber, Saad-ur-Rehman, better known as Ducky Bhai. He was detained at Lahore Airport last month after a case was registered against him for gambling promotion and betting-related activities.
Ducky Bhai remains in custody, with his physical remand extended for three more days. Investigators have also accused him of uploading obscene content on social media.
The NCCIA’s latest move highlights growing concerns over the rise of online gambling apps in Pakistan. Authorities warn that promoting such platforms misleads the youth and violates cybercrime laws.
In other news read more about Court Extends Physical Remand of YouTuber Ducky Bhai by Three Days
